The federal agency responsible for producing data about the American people and economy is a principal operating unit of the U.S. Department of Commerce. This data provides a detailed portrait of the nation, covering population counts, housing characteristics, business statistics, and a wide range of other social and economic indicators. These statistics are often presented at multiple geographic levels, from the national and state down to the local neighborhood. For example, information on median income or educational attainment can be found for specific counties or even census tracts.
Reliable and comprehensive data is essential for effective governance, policy development, and informed decision-making across various sectors. These statistics inform the allocation of federal funds to states and localities, influence urban planning and infrastructure development, and contribute to research in fields like public health, sociology, and economics. The decennial census, mandated by the U.S. Constitution, is a cornerstone of this data collection effort, providing a snapshot of the nation every ten years. However, the agency also conducts numerous ongoing surveys and data collection activities to ensure a continuous flow of current information.
